Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By embedding biomarkers within the strands, hair provides an extended timeline of drug and alcohol usage history. When sampled near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of nearly three months for both alcohol and drugs. It is easy to collect, inherently resistant to tampering, and straightforward to transport.
A sample comprising 1.5 inches of roughly 200 hair strands (approximating the girth of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for screening and validation. For EtG, supplemental tests, or those requiring more than 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is suggested. We propose using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair isn't an option, a comparable mass of body hair may be gathered. References to head hair imply scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedures for analyzing a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning denotes the preliminary processing of a specimen into the lab's system. This process includes ensuring the sample's secure sealing and appropriate shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entry not accounted for by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial, rapid examination for substances of abuse. While it offers a cost-efficient method to negate drug usage in the majority of specimens, a positive result at this stage necessitates confirmation to be legally valid. Samples showing presumptive positivity in Screening require further confirmation.
When a sample shows presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair analysis a challenging technique to conduct.
Positive screening outcomes are confirmed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo washing as required. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes scrutiny under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair certification and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The term "hair follicle tests" is a misnomer as the test analyzes the hair strand itself, not the follicle under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Sargents, CO - Hair testing offers significant advantages over urine tests, mainly through its superior detection capabilities and exceptional reliability. While urine tests are limited to recent drug use, hair tests reveal a comprehensive picture of substance use over time, making them invaluable for accurate detection.
Extended Detection Window in Sargents, CO - Hair follicle testing's ability to uncover drug history for up to 90 days provides employers with a detailed perspective of an individual's substance use. This extended detection time allows companies to make informed decisions backed by thorough insights into an employee's habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Sargents, CO - Hair follicle tests offer a robust solution to the issue of sample adulteration, ensuring results remain trustworthy and definitive. This method drastically diminishes the chance of tampering, making it a preferred choice for reliable outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Sargents, CO - Our widespread network of testing centers ensures straightforward, rapid access to testing services. Participants can access conveniently located sites whenever necessary, eliminating the stress associated with drug testing procedures.
Simple, Confidential Process in Sargents, CO - Experience an uncomplicated, discreet process when ordering and undertaking tests, with full confidence in the privacy of your results. Each step is designed for ease, from sample collection to receiving confidential reports.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Sargents, CO - Accredited Drug Testing provides competitive pricing and quick turnaround times, offering great value with peace of mind. This commitment ensures both efficiency and cost-effectiveness for businesses of any size.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Sargents, CO - The precision of hair follicle tests is unmatched, delivering swift results in detecting substance use effectively. Each analysis ensures high accuracy, distinguishing it from other testing methods. Employers can trust the reliability of hair follicle tests to make sound decisions based on fast feedback.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Sargents, CO - Employing hair follicle tests helps organizations adhere to strict drug-free workplace policies, minimizing potential legal complications. This reliable testing avenue safeguards workplaces and enhances overall job environments.
